The new web-based IM will also be available inside Hotmail a la Google's GTalk. A post on the Windows Live Blog confirmed that MSN Messenger's web innings would draw to a close on Tuesday, "With new web-based instant messaging (IM) now available in Windows Live Hotmail worldwide, we are preparing to retire MSN Web Messenger. The old MSN Web Messenger experience will end on June 30, 2009," it added.

MSN Web Messenger was launched in August 2004 and was quickly popular among users addicted to chatting. The funny and sometimes snarky icons gave users additional ways to express themselves. the messenger though struggled to keep up with Yahoo's M4essenger service, which proved immensely popular among netizens.

Users could connect to the messengers via their Windows Live ID and overall it was a satisfying experience. But the advent of the chat feature inside Google's GMail may have prompted Microsoft to rethink the strategy of offering a standalone messenger service.

The main advantage with having the integrated version of Web Messenger inside Hotmail accounts is that you can actually see who is online and may even receive a quick reply should you happen to send emails when your contacts are on.

Microsoft is also planning upgrades to its other brands on June 30 including Windows Live OneCare and Microsoft Encarta.